Arsenal are reportedly working to secure the long-term futures of several key members of their squad, with the club optimistic that a number of important contract extensions will be finalized in the coming weeks.
The first step for the reigning Premier League champions was extending manager Mikel Arteta’s contract by another four years. Now, the club’s attention has turned to midfielder Declan Rice, with negotiations underway over a new deal.
Rice has become one of Arsenal’s most important players since joining from West Ham United in July 2023 for a fee of £105 million. So far, the 27-year-old has made more than 150 starts for the Gunners.
Rice’s current contract runs until June 2028, but Arsenal are looking to extend it for a further two years. A new agreement is also expected to come with a significant pay rise, with his current salary reportedly around £240,000 per week.
If Rice signs a new contract, his salary could move closer to that of Bukayo Saka, who is reportedly earning around £350,000 per week.
Odegaard and Timber the Next Targets
After Rice, Arsenal’s hierarchy are expected to turn their attention to captain Martin Odegaard and defender Jurrien Timber.
Both players are under contract until the end of the 2027/28 season, but the club wants to secure their services for an even longer period.
Odegaard’s excellent form at the start of the season, combined with Timber’s continued importance to Arteta’s plans, has convinced the Arsenal hierarchy that both players deserve new contracts.
Arsenal are therefore looking to preserve the core of their squad and establish long-term stability at the Emirates Stadium as they continue their ambition to dominate English football.
